The Punjab Police implemented stringent security measures across the province, including Lahore, on the fifth day of Muharram-ul-Haram, deploying more than 40,000 officers and personnel to safeguard mourning processions and majalis. According to a Punjab Police spokesperson, a total of 559 mourning processions and 3,967 majalis were held across the province on 5th Muharram-ul-Haram. In Lahore alone, 42 processions were taken out while 420 majalis were organized under comprehensive security arrangements.
Community Volunteers and Surveillance
More than 21,000 community volunteers assisted law enforcement agencies in maintaining security and facilitating mourners during the religious gatherings. Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Abdul Kareem stated that security arrangements across the province would remain on high alert throughout the Ashra of Muharram-ul-Haram. He added that all available resources were being utilized to ensure law and order.
Strict Enforcement of Section 144
The IGP emphasized strict implementation of Section 144 imposed by the Punjab government. Aerial firing, display of weapons, dissemination of hate material, and other provocative activities remained strictly prohibited. He stressed that no procession or gathering would be allowed outside designated routes and approved venues. All activities were being continuously monitored through the surveillance network of the Safe Cities Authority and district administrations.
Deployment of Specialized Units
Abdul Kareem said that personnel from the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), Special Branch, Traffic Police, Dolphin Squad, Police Response Unit (PRU), and other field formations had been deployed for Muharram security duties across the province. He directed officers to ensure strict enforcement of the Loudspeaker Act and take indiscriminate legal action against elements involved in spreading hate material and inciting content through social media platforms.
Centralized Control Rooms
The IGP further noted that control rooms established in all districts had been linked with the Central Police Office’s central control room. These would remain in constant coordination throughout Muharram-ul-Haram to ensure effective monitoring of security arrangements and prompt response to any untoward situation.
